By Tongchai Sajew and Siravuth Subsermsr

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Nov 9, 2012 09:50:00

Newly-appointed Thailand national team manager Thanusak Lekutai pleaded with the squad’s players to forget their club colours and concentrate on the AFF Suzuki Cup

Joined by head coach Winfried Schafer, Thailand team manager Thanusak Lekutai insisted this week that players have to put aside their differences during the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup despite coming from rival clubs, in order to achieve the country's objective of bringing back the championship that they have not won for 10 years.

Lekutai's remarks came after a meeting held on November 6 between the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) and representatives of 10 domestic clubs who had players called up to national team duty.

The number of domestic fixtures featured prominently in the discussion, as player fatigue and scheduling conflicts have become recurring storylines. Both sides agreed to work on a compromise for the 2013 season that will allow the FAT to arrange more friendlies.

The meeting also brought reforms in injury compensation, with FAT president Worawi Makudi assuring clubs that the federation will now bear the costs of any player injured while playing for Thailand. Previously, the players' clubs were responsible for such medical care.

Thai Premier League champions Muangthong United as well as Buriram United, Chonburif FC, Osotsapa M150, Bangkok Glass, Bangkok United, BEC Tero, Pattaya United, Chainat FC, and Army United attended the meeting. Representatives from Police United, Samut Songkram, Wuachon United, and Ratchaburi FC did not attend the meeting despite having players with the national team.